Today we’d like to introduce you to Kaylin Smith.
Kaylin, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Makeup became a love of mine while I was studying Theatre at the High School for Performing and Visual Arts (HSPVA). It was a requirement that all students learn about every aspect of the theatre and makeup was one of them. At that time, YouTube had begun to take off and I was hooked on Michelle Phan’s videos.
From there my obsession with makeup grew into a profitable business. My business started my Junior year at PVA with several prom looks. From there, I continued to watch Youtube to learn more techniques and perfected my craft. Once I realized how profitable being a freelance makeup artist could be, I became more serious about promoting my services. Through my years in college, I have been blessed to have worked with photographers, models, and many others that have kept me busy over the years. One photographer, Mrs. Tonya Dailey, has been a true blessing to me. Mrs. Dailey has provided me plenty of work and has connected me with many of my past clients. Kay. Glam Beauty has grown into a business that enhances a woman’s natural beauty. I truly believe that this mission statement is the reason my business is as successful as it is.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Honey, Honey… It has not been easy at all. Being an entrepreneur is not for the faint at heart. Just like others, I had a slow beginning: not a ton of people trusted me due to my lack of experience. Once my business picked up, I thought I was on the roll. Little did I know, I was going to hit my first dry spell my freshman year in college. I mean no one wanted their makeup done by me. The entire year was “dead.” I was so frustrated and discouraged. I think that is what makes entrepreneurs give up: the fact that we become discouraged. With that being said, I did quit. I stopped posting about my services and I just did my own makeup. My mother, my biggest supporter, encouraged me to start my business back up and keep pushing through the hard times. My mommy helped me become more confident in myself and from there the revamped Kay. Glam Beauty was born. You have to love a mama honey.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Kay.Glam Beauty story. Tell us more about the business.
Kay.Glam Beauty is a makeup company that specializes in enhancing a woman’s/man’s beauty. I offer all makeup services: soft glams, full glams, photoshoots, weddings, etc. I am known for my beauty shots from collaborations with photographers. I am proud of my business for several reasons, but mostly, I am proud because I have stayed true to my mission statement. I have stayed a positive influence in the beauty industry. I believe what sets me apart from others is that I am not afraid of a challenge, I am not afraid of mature skins, I am not afraid of immature skin, and I see the beauty in everyone.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
The only thing I can say about luck is how lucky I am to serve the God I serve. God has truly blessed me! He has connected me to people who have helped my business grow significantly. Through the rough times, I still remained faithful and just allowed God to guide me in the right direction. Neither my life or my business has been easy, but God has seen me through.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 832-602-8274
- Email: Kaylinsmith2016@gmail.com
- Instagram: @Kay.Glam.Beauty
Image Credit:
All photos were taken by Tonya Dailey!
Suggest a story: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.